Three people are balanced on a uniform seesaw - Torque

AI Thread Summary
Three individuals are balanced on a uniform seesaw weighing 150 N, and the problem involves calculating the mass of person B and the normal force on the fulcrum. The torque equilibrium equation Tcw = Tccw is applied, with the seesaw's weight treated as an additional mass at its center. Adjustments to the distances from the fulcrum are necessary to accurately reflect the positions of each person. The weight of the seesaw must be included in the calculations to find the correct mass for person B. Understanding these principles is crucial for solving the seesaw balance problem effectively.
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Three people are balanced on a uniform seesaw -- Torque

Homework Statement


Three people are balanced on a uniform seesaw which has a weight of 150 N as shown in the figure.
Find the mass of person B and the normal force acting on the fulcrum.


Homework Equations


Tcw=Tccw


The Attempt at a Solution


There was a problem that involved mass and a fulcrum in my notes, it doesn't have a force or weight of the fulcrum, but I tried to set it up like the example to find the mass of person B

(mC)(5.4)=(mA)(0)+(mB)(1.2). I then solved for mass B. I am not sure if I have to also put the weight of the fulcrum in there or not.
 

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There is no mass of a fulcrum. The 150 N refer to the weight of the horizontal seesaw. You can just treat it like an additional person, sitting at the center of mass of the seesaw. The sketch shows this.
(mC)(5.4)=(mA)(0)+(mB)(1.2)
Those are not the distances to the fulcrum.
 
So would I change the distances by subtracting the number from the fulcrum. Instead of mB being 1.2, it would be 0.8, mC 3.4 and mA 2?
 
Right. And don't forget the weight of the seesaw.
 
Cool. Thanks!
 
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